The world is gaming, and in a big way. As of 2025, approximately 3.32 billion people globally are active gamers, a monumental rise of over 1 billion new players in just nine years. This rising tide underscores not just the industry’s growth, but also its expanding cultural relevance.
Today, gaming is a global phenomenon that spans generations. From the 618 million under-18 players to the significant presence of 35 – 65+ year-olds; from near gender parity to Asia’s sheer dominance, the data tells a vivid story of inclusivity, reach, and relentless growth.
According to statista.com, a global 2024 survey found that more than eight in ten internet users aged 16 to 44 years played video games on any device, with men slightly more likely to do so.
Video gaming, once thought of as a niche pastime, is now one of the most popular and long-lasting hobbies in the world. With about 2.7 billion gamers globally, games are now woven into daily life across regions, age groups, and genders.
THE GLOBAL GAMING MARKET
The video game industry is a financial powerhouse. The pandemic briefly revived sales of physical games, which had been steadily declining. Nevertheless, digital revenues still dominate, particularly mobile gaming, which brings in more than $126 billion annually. In terms of overall earnings, only hardware sales surpass mobile.
In 2025, the United States emerged as the world’s largest gaming market, overtaking China, which fell to second place. Japan, home to globally beloved gaming franchises, ranks third.
WHO’S PLAYING? The world’s audience
The accessibility of mobile devices has made mobile gaming the most popular format worldwide, with two billion people playing on phones.
Penetration rates: Over 94% of internet users in mobile-first markets like the Philippines, Indonesia, and India play games. Globally, gaming penetration across all devices is 83.6%.
Over 80% of internet users between the ages of 16 and 44 play video games, with men slightly more active than women, according to a global survey conducted in 2024.
Devices:
Smartphones lead at 68 per cent usage.
PCs are second, used by over a third of gamers.
This demonstrates that gaming is now truly accessible to everyone and is no longer restricted to consoles or extreme setups.
GENRES THAT DEFINE THE MARKET
- Gamers’ tastes are diverse, but some genres dominate across demographics:
- Shooter and action-adventure games rank highest in popularity.
- Simulation and racing games follow closely.
- Younger audiences gravitate toward battle royale titles.
- Older players show stronger interest in puzzle platformers and RPGs.
Nowadays, gaming is more than just playing games—it’s a way of life and a social ecosystem. Tutorials and livestreams related to games are consumed by millions of people online. YouTube is one of the most popular platforms for gaming content. Top gaming streamers command millions of subscribers, while digital showcases, awards, and conferences draw global audiences.
The numbers make one thing clear, gaming is no longer a subculture, it’s a global culture.
- 2.7 billion players worldwide
- Mobile gaming at $126 billion revenues
- 83.6 per cent global penetration among internet users
- Gender and generational diversity in the audience